Nigeria News (Standard)
British High Commission Flags Vote Trading, Accessibility Gaps in Ekiti Governorship Election
UK congratulates Oyebanji, INEC and security agencies but raises concerns over party agent interference and disabled voters’ access
UK congratulates Oyebanji, INEC and security agencies but raises concerns over party agent interference and disabled voters’ access
The British High Commission has commended the peaceful conduct of Saturday’s governorship election in Ekiti State, while raising concerns about reports of vote trading and limited accessibility for persons with disabilities at several polling units. The commission made its position known in a statement released on Monday, following the re-election of Governor Abiodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across all 16 local government areas in the South-West state.
According to the statement, the British mission welcomed the orderly nature of the poll and applauded the efforts of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and other stakeholders in delivering a largely credible process. It noted that effective cooperation between election officials and security personnel contributed to a calm atmosphere across most polling centres.
However, the High Commission expressed concern over persistent reports of vote trading—where votes are exchanged for cash or favours—and alleged interference by party agents at some locations visited by UK observers. It also highlighted technical challenges faced by voters and cited limited access for persons with disabilities as an area requiring urgent attention.
“The peaceful and orderly delivery of the election by INEC, security agencies and other stakeholders is commendable,” the commission stated. “Nonetheless, we remain concerned about incidents of vote trading as well as accessibility issues that undermine electoral integrity.”
The commission’s statement comes as Nigeria prepares for further off-cycle elections ahead of the 2027 general polls. Stakeholders have called on INEC to intensify reforms that will address technical glitches and ensure inclusive participation for all eligible voters. As at press time, opposition parties had not issued formal reactions to either the conduct or outcome of Saturday’s election.
Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/national/uk-flags-vote-trading-accessibility-issues-in-ekiti-poll/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ekiti PDP Candidate Oluyede Rejects Governorship Poll Result, Vows Legal Challenge
Oluyede says he will pursue all lawful and democratic avenues to contest outcome of Ekiti State governorship election
Oluyede says he will pursue all lawful and democratic avenues to contest outcome of Ekiti State governorship election
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election, Olumide Oluyede, has rejected the official result announced by the electoral authorities on Monday, vowing to challenge the outcome using every legal and democratic means. The declaration followed the conclusion of polling across local government areas in the South-West state.
Oluyede’s rejection came shortly after results were made public by electoral officials, with victory handed to a rival candidate. In a statement issued in Ado-Ekiti, the PDP candidate described the process as flawed and called on his supporters to remain calm while the party pursues redress through appropriate channels.
The development is significant for Ekiti State politics, as disputes over electoral outcomes have been common in past cycles. Observers say the PDP’s decision to contest the result signals likely protracted litigation and could delay final resolution of leadership for the state.
Oluyede stated that he would seek justice through Nigeria’s established legal system. He emphasised his commitment to democratic norms, saying: “We will use all lawful and democratic means to reclaim our mandate.” The candidate urged his supporters not to take laws into their hands while legal proceedings are ongoing.
It remains unclear when legal filings will commence or what specific grounds Oluyede’s team will cite. The electoral commission and security agencies have not yet responded publicly to his statement. Political analysts expect heightened political activity as Ekiti awaits possible tribunal hearings or court interventions in coming weeks.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Messi Sets Two World Cup Records in Single Match at Qatar 2026
Argentina captain achieves new milestones as FIFA confirms historic feat during group stage encounter
Argentina captain achieves new milestones as FIFA confirms historic feat during group stage encounter
Lionel Messi, captain of the Argentina national team, has broken two separate World Cup records in one match at the ongoing tournament in Qatar. The achievement took place during a group stage fixture on Monday, 22 June 2026, as confirmed by FIFA.
During the encounter, Messi surpassed previous benchmarks set by football legends, becoming the player with the most appearances in World Cup history and also setting a new mark for goals scored in the competition by an Argentine. The Argentine forward’s performance was instrumental as his side secured a crucial victory that boosted their chances of advancing to the knockout rounds.
The feat is significant for Nigerian football followers and global fans alike, as Messi’s consistency and longevity continue to set a standard in international football. His record-breaking appearance has now placed him ahead of former German international Lothar Matthäus, while his goal tally surpasses that of previous Argentine record-holder Gabriel Batistuta.
FIFA officially acknowledged Messi’s accomplishment shortly after the final whistle, describing it as “a testament to his enduring quality and leadership on the world stage.” Many sports analysts have noted that such achievements not only cement Messi’s legacy but also inspire younger players worldwide.
With this development, attention will turn to Argentina’s next fixture as supporters wonder if Messi will extend his record further. The ongoing World Cup continues to provide memorable moments for fans across Nigeria and beyond.
Nigeria News (Standard)
14-Year-Old Boy Shot Dead in Osun, Father Alleges Political Thugs Responsible
Incident sparks outrage in Osun community as grieving family calls for police investigation into suspected politically-motivated violence
Incident sparks outrage in Osun community as grieving family calls for police investigation into suspected politically-motivated violence
A 14-year-old boy has been killed by gunfire in Osun State, with the victim’s father blaming the incident on suspected political thugs. The tragic event occurred on Monday, June 22, in an unnamed community within the state, according to initial reports from local sources.
Details of how the shooting unfolded remain unclear. However, the bereaved father claims his son was targeted and fatally shot by individuals he described as political thugs. No official confirmation has yet been provided by the Osun State Police Command regarding arrests or ongoing investigations.
The killing has heightened concerns about politically-linked violence in parts of Osun State, especially given rising tensions reported around local government areas in previous months. Community members have expressed fear that such incidents could escalate if not addressed swiftly by security agencies.
As at press time, no statement had been issued by either the Osun State Government or political parties named in the allegation. Police authorities have also not commented publicly on the matter. The victim’s family is demanding a thorough investigation and prosecution of those responsible.
Residents and rights groups are urging security operatives to prioritise the case and restore confidence among locals ahead of upcoming political activities in the state.
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